Brunetti is something of an institution for serious set keen for a pit-stop of caffeine and cake. But for BigMouth and CB, last night was our first meal at its restaurant.

At first, a little unnerved by the hub-bub and clatter of the cafe bar, pasticceria and gelataria, our jangled nerves were soon to be soothed as we were ushered to the more sedate atmosphere of the cosy restaurant.
The menu boasted an array of traditional Italian dishes such as panini, bruschetta, calzone and soup. But we were tempted by offerings from the special’s board.

CB selected the Risotto Porcini. Its flavoursome mushrooms delighting us both. While BigMouth chose the Calamari Ripieni, served in a tangy Romano sauce. We shared a small garden salad which was most generous in its proportion and could easily have been dubbed “large”.
Although the restaurant does offer desserts, it is more common for patrons to wander off to the pasticceria section to be stumped by the wide range of options available. Be dazzled by the opera cake (layers of almond sponge, coffee butter cream and chocolate ganache), the biscuits and confectionery, or a cup of mixed gelato. Pick one (or more) and it follows you back to the dining table to complete your meal.

CB went for the passionfruit tart, which we decided would have been better with more of the former (the passionfruit) and less of the latter (the tart). BigMouth, having already shared in ample sampling from CB’s meals (without reciprocating), display a futile bravado at belated restraint - and nominated to have an affogato, which was delicious.

Add one glass of mineral water (for CB) and two glasses of wine (for BigMouth), wave the “Entertainment Gold Card” for a 25% discount, and then be pleasantly surprised to find the entire feast at a remarkably low $64.40.